Dental implants
A dental implant replaces a missing tooth with a titanium post set in the jawbone and a crown fixed on top. The post fuses with the bone over 3 to 6 months, so the finished tooth chews with force close to a natural molar and never needs to come out at night.
Dr. Maya Patel, DDS has practiced for 14 years with a focus on implant and cosmetic work. She restores single teeth, implant-supported bridges, and dentures anchored on implants for patients tired of a loose lower plate.
How it works
What to expect
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Consultation and 3D scan (60 minutes)
Exam, cone beam CT scan, and a treatment plan with a written quote. The scan shows bone height and width, so you know before committing whether a graft is needed.
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Implant placement (60 to 90 minutes)
The post is placed under local anesthesia. If the gap is visible when you smile, a temporary tooth covers it. Most patients return to work the next day.
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Healing (3 to 6 months)
The post fuses with the bone, a process called osseointegration. A 15 minute check at week 2 confirms the gum is healing on track.
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Final crown (2 visits, 2 weeks apart)
A digital scan of the healed site, then the crown is seated, the bite is checked, and you leave chewing on it the same day.
Who it suits
- Adults missing one or more teeth
- Enough jawbone to hold the post, or a candidate for grafting (the CT scan tells us)
- Healthy gums; active gum disease is treated first
- Smokers can qualify, though healing takes longer; we cover this at the consultation
- Patients who want an alternative to a bridge or a partial denture
- Finished jaw growth, usually age 18 and up
Cost
Pricing
From $3,200
Single implant from $3,200, with a written quote fixed at the consultation before any work starts. We accept 8 insurance plans including Delta Dental, Cigna, and MetLife; claims filed the same day.
Before and after
Before
After
Common questions
Does implant placement hurt?
Placement runs under local anesthesia. Most patients report soreness for 2 to 3 days, managed with over the counter ibuprofen.
How long does an implant last?
With daily brushing, flossing, and checkups every 6 months, the post can last decades. The crown on top typically needs replacement after 10 to 15 years.
How long does the whole process take?
3 to 6 months from placement to final crown for most patients. A bone graft, when needed, adds 3 to 4 months of healing before placement.
Will insurance cover an implant?
Coverage varies by plan, and some of the 8 plans we accept pay part of the crown portion. We verify your benefits before you commit and file claims the same day.
The tooth has been missing for years. Is it too late?
Bone shrinks where a tooth is missing, so the CT scan checks whether a graft is needed first. Dr. Patel walks through the options at the consultation.
Ready to replace a missing tooth?
The consultation includes a cone beam CT scan and a written quote. Saturday appointments run 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.